“I personally don't set my sights on that record,” he insisted. “I'm just privileged to have had the opportunity to win one. We're going into next year and I am at the beginning of my career, so I have the opportunity to try and win some more, but I feel very confident and very enthusiastic – and even more concentrated on next year and doing a better job.”

Speaking at the star-studded annual FIA Gala in Monaco, meanwhile, Hamilton acknowledged that 2008 had been 'a very special' year for him and 'the fulfilment of a dream I've had since childhood and an ambition that has taken my family and me on an amazing journey'.

“The fact that I won the drivers' world championship on the very last lap of the very last race is something that makes me so proud of our efforts in 2008,” he underlined. “We pushed to the limit on every single lap, from Melbourne to Brazil – and it's that determination and spirit that ultimately won us the world title.

“It's always very rewarding to receive recognition for all the work you put into the season, and the FIA Prize Giving Gala in Monte Carlo is of course a fitting venue at which to celebrate all our efforts before we push ahead into 2009.”